Stockeu
Category 31 km
Distance
90 m
Elevation Gain
11.4%
Average Gradient
24%
Max Gradient
One of the most savage short climbs in the Belgian Ardennes and a long-standing fixture on the Liège-Bastogne-Liège route. Stockeu rises from Stavelot — a picturesque Ardennes town famous for its Carnival — at an average of 11.4% over a single kilometre, with a maximum gradient of 24% on the upper section that forces virtually everyone off the saddle. The climb is located near the Spa-Francorchamps racing circuit and is often combined with Wanne in the same ride. The Eddy Merckx memorial near the summit honours five Liège victories. The narrow road and steep gradient mean this climb is best attempted with knowledge of the road rather than blindly from the foot.
Pro Tip
Stavelot at the base is one of the finest small towns in Wallonia — excellent Ardennes cuisine, a good hotel scene, and direct access to Stockeu, Wanne, and the Haute-Levée. The traditional Ardennaise beer culture (Orval, Chimay, Rochefort all distributed locally) rewards well the disciplined rider who limits sampling to post-ride.
Part of
Cycling in Ardennes